The Myth Behind the Constellation Serpens

Serpens, “The Serpent” is the snake that taught the legendary healer Asclepius (see Ophiuchus) the medicinal powers of plants. Asclepius once killed a snake, and observed another snake bringing it back to life by placing a plant on it. The physician used this principal to become skilled in medicine. When Asclepius was killed, the serpent was placed in the night sky along with him.